Installing Fretboard Markers on Guitars
Installing fret markers can allow you to quickly identify the fret you are on while playing guitar. Some guitars only have side dot markers, which can be a problem in low-light situations. If your guitar is without fret markers, you can easily install fret dots with a few tools. The key to the installation is accurate measuring and a smooth touch with the electric drill, as going too deep may ruin your fret board.
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Things You'll Need
- Screwdriver
- Masking tape
- Calipers
- Electric drill
- Forstner bit
- Fret dots
- Super glue
Instructions
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1
Remove the strings from the guitar to install the fret board markers on your guitar neck. Loosen the tuners on the head stock and pull each individual string off of each tuner post. Pull them out of the bridge either by pulling them up and out or through the bridge if there is no slot. Set the strings aside if they are still in good shape, or throw them away.
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2
Remove the neck from the guitar to get proper unrestricted access to the neck for the installation. Unscrew the four screws on the back of the neck heel, located where the neck and guitar body meet. Set aside the screws and any nuts, protecting the wood for re-attachment after the installation is complete.
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3
Place a piece of masking tape over the entire fret. This will allow you to mark the spot for the fret marker. Measure both the thickness and the width of the fret from one fret wire to the other. Write these measurements down and mark them specifically.
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4
Open you calipers to half of the measured width and lock them with the thumb screw at the top of the calipers. Score the width center by running the caliper along the edge. Repeat this process for the thickness of the fret as well. The end result will be a "+" sign marking the center of the fret.
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5
Drill the center of the fret with a Forstner bit attached to an electric drill. Go as deep as the thickness of the fret marker, which can be measured with the calipers. Be careful not to go too deep; shallower is better, as you will eventually sand down each fret with a new marker. Blow the wood dust out of the hole after you have drilled it.
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6
Place the fret marker in the hole and push down. Drop a dab of super glue on the marker, which will hold the marker in its spot, and allow it to dry. Repeat Steps 3 through 5 for the rest of the frets that need fret markers. Sand each fret with fine-grit sandpaper after the glue has dried and replace the neck on the guitar body. Restring and re-tune after you are finished.
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Tips & Warnings
Drilling too deep may require you to fill in the hole to prevent the fret marker from sitting to low on the neck.
References
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